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The Houston Dash will look for a second-straight win Thursday as they host the Washington Spirit at BBVA Compass Stadium. With the playoffs looming, each game remains important for both teams. On top of that, the Dash will be looking for some revenge, as they have loss to the Spirit both times the teams have met up.
During the last match up June 28, Washington were able to get the game winning goal on a counter attack which started with Lisa De Vanna and would finish with Jodie Taylor nipping the ball over Houston keeper Erin McLeod. That win would kick off a little streak for the Spirit. With the prospect of their playoff hopes in the balance, Washington picked up their pace. In the last two games since June 28, they have tied with the Boston Breakers and won against the Western New York Flash.
Now, sitting in third place in the league, expect the Spirit to hold strong. Along with the confidence of winning the past two match ups against Houston, they will be a tough team to beat. Taylor will be the player to watch as she has been quite the force to reckon with in the past two match ups.
As for Houston, the shaky first season for the ladies continues. A little confidence will hopefully do them wonders going into this match. And after the last game, where Kealia Ohai's brace game the Dash an exciting win at home, confidence should be there. It might also be good for Houston to give Ohai more time up front - she is quick and getting more settled with each game she plays. She could be just the element needed to strengthen the offense.
The biggest concern, again, is the defense. Several of the goals that have been scored against Houston recently have been when keeper Erin McLeod is off her line. Which could mean McLeod is having to cover too much for her back line. Opposing team offensives are getting too much space to get behind the Houston defense. The Dash will need to tighten up and be on their marks to make sure to keep Taylor in check.
The Dash and Spirit will face off at 8 p.m. CT Thursday. A live stream of the game will be posted on Dynamo Theory before kick off.